Compartmented Fibres for Multiple-Healing of the Polymeric Matrix in Fibre Reinforced Composites

摘要

Summary. Healing functionality of composites made of thermoplastic matrix with embedded compartmented fibres was evaluated. It was found that the compartmented fibres lead to partial recovery of the initial mechanical properties of the composite. Micro-computed tomography combined with off-axis flexural test showed the ability of compartmented fibres to perform multiple healing in polymer matrices. ABSTRACT Fibrous bio-inspired autonomous healing system embedded in a polymer matrix was developed to improve the fracture resistance of fibre reinforced composites. The system consisted of compartmented fibres-fibres with discrete liquid containers-carrying a liquid to heal matrix micro-cracks. Compartmented fibres were spun from an oil/water emulsion of a healing agent in an aqueous solution of sodium alginate. The retention of the liquid healing agent (ortho-dichlorobenzene) in a solid fibre was provided by the coagulation of the alginate polymer during fibre formation. Spun fibres were embedded in polymethylmethacrylate, pre-cracked in 3 point bending and allowed a certain period of time to self-heal before they were loaded again. Computed micro-tomography was used to visualise damage and healing sites. Test samples with the new fibres located at the likely damage sites were able to recover, (in part) their mechanical properties. The concept of multiple release of healing agent from a compartmented fibre into the surrounding polymer matrix was demonstrated successfully.